After attempted Al-Shabaab assassination, Somalia President spends night in frontlines

MOGADISHU, Somalia - President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud spent a night in the frontlines moments after surviving an Al-Shabaab attack, state media reports, reflecting his commitment to the fight against the group, which controls most parts of central and southern regions.

According to reports, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud slept around Moqokori district in Hirshabelle where the military has been on the offensive against the militants, who are seeking to topple the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia.

"The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, spent the night on the frontlines of the ongoing offensive against terrorist groups, holding a crucial meeting in Moqokori district with Hirshabelle leadership and senior military commanders leading the country’s liberation efforts," state media reports.

During the stay, Hassan Sheikh took time navigating through the welfare of the military on the frontlines, while appreciating the milestones they have made in the process. The president encouraged the team to pursue the militants and liberate the remaining territories.

"President Hassan Sheikh received updates from the Hirshabelle Vice President and frontline military leaders on the achievements and challenges faced in the operation," state media adds.

"The commanders highlighted the morale boost among the troops, emphasizing the significance of the President’s presence on the battlefield, closely monitoring progress, understanding the needs, and witnessing firsthand the bravery of the Somali National Army."

The militant group has intensified its pressure in the Hiran and Middle Shabelle regions, capturing areas previously controlled by government forces and the local clan militia known as Macawiisley.

The Al-Shabaab took responsibility for the attack but did not issue further statements about the attack on a presidential convoy. Bulletproof vehicles used by the group were dismantled by the Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

GAROWE ONLINE